En route to Ramallah - Red Cross buses transport Palestinian prisoners through Beitunia as truce takes effect

En route to Ramallah - Red Cross buses transport Palestinian prisoners through Beitunia as truce takes effect

"Palestinian prisoners were seen leaving Ofer Prison and passing through Beitunia on their way to Ramallah on Monday, after being released as part of the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas. According to the Palestinian news agency WAFA, “ninety-six prisoners with life sentences and long-term convictions, released by Israel from Ofer Prison, arrived in Ramallah as part of the first phase of the ceasefire agreement.” WAFA added that Israeli authorities are releasing 250 inmates serving life or long-term sentences, along with 1,718 detainees from Gaza who were arrested after October 7, 2023. “The Al-Qassam Brigades and the resistance in the Gaza Strip are releasing 20 Israeli prisoners held by the resistance, as part of the initial phase of implementing Trump’s plan to end the war on Gaza” Hamas announced in a statement. The ceasefire between Hamas and Israel came into effect at noon on Friday, after the Israeli military confirmed that its forces had “begun repositioning along the updated deployment lines.” The Israeli cabinet approved the first phase of the truce a day earlier. On September 29, US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu unveiled a 20-point peace plan for Gaza, calling for an immediate ceasefire, the release of all hostages, living and deceased, within 72 hours, and the release of 250 Palestinians serving life sentences as well as 1,700 detainees from Gaza. The plan also provides for 'full humanitarian aid' to Gaza, amnesty for Hamas members who renounce violence, and safe passage for others, stating that “no one will be forced to leave Gaza.” Hamas conditionally accepted the proposal, demanding guarantees of lasting peace and a complete Israeli withdrawal from the enclave."